{"id":77907,"date":"2026-02-28T00:01:11","date_gmt":"2026-02-28T00:01:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/english.saigonbiz.com\/vn\/why-the-first-year-behind-the-wheel-is-the-most-dangerous-data-shows-teen-drivers-3-times-more-likely-to-be-in-fatal-crash\/"},"modified":"2026-02-28T00:01:11","modified_gmt":"2026-02-28T00:01:11","slug":"why-the-first-year-behind-the-wheel-is-the-most-dangerous-data-shows-teen-drivers-3-times-more-likely-to-be-in-fatal-crash","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/english.saigonbiz.com\/vn\/why-the-first-year-behind-the-wheel-is-the-most-dangerous-data-shows-teen-drivers-3-times-more-likely-to-be-in-fatal-crash\/","title":{"rendered":"Why the First Year Behind the Wheel is the Most Dangerous: Data Shows Teen Drivers 3 Times More Likely to be in Fatal Crash"},"content":{"rendered":"
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NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (Feature Impact) The driver\u2019s license photo may be slightly awkward, but the milestone is unforgettable. For families, a newly licensed teen means independence, busy schedules and a new set of responsibilities.<\/p>\n

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Motor vehicle crashes remain one of the leading causes of death for U.S. teens, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows drivers ages 16-19 are nearly three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers 20 and older, per mile driven.<\/p>\n

The statistics are serious, but they\u2019re also manageable.<\/p>\n

\u201cWith the right preparation, teen driving doesn\u2019t have to feel overwhelming,\u201d said Susan Irace, manager, divisional claims at Mercury Insurance. \u201cExperience is what young drivers are building. Parents can help shorten that learning curve with structure, technology and smart coverage decisions.\u201d<\/p>\n

Why the First Year Matters<\/strong>
Federal safety data shows crash risk is highest in a teen\u2019s first year of independent driving. Night driving, teen passengers and distracted driving increase that risk \u2013 while seat belts, graduated licensing laws and supervised practice significantly reduce it.<\/p>\n

In 2023, more than 2,800 teens ages 13-19 were killed in motor vehicle crashes nationwide, according to the CDC. However, teen crash rates have declined over time thanks to safer vehicles, graduated driver licensing programs and greater awareness of distracted driving.<\/p>\n

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Ways to Reduce Teen Driving Risk<\/strong>
The experts at Mercury Insurance encourage families to focus on preparation rather than panic.<\/p>\n

1. Coach Early and Often<\/strong><\/p>\n